Missouri Security Deposit Laws: Tenant Rights and Protections

Understanding your rights regarding security deposits is key when renting a home or apartment in Missouri. If you're concerned about how much your landlord can charge, what counts as legitimate deductions, or how to get your deposit back at the end of your lease, Missouri law provides clear guidelines. This guide explains your rights and responsibilities around security deposits under Missouri law, with official resources and practical steps to protect yourself as a renter.

What Is a Security Deposit?

A security deposit is money you pay to your landlord before moving in. It's meant to cover unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear. Missouri landlords must follow specific rules on collecting, holding, and returning these deposits.

Key Security Deposit Laws in Missouri

Missouri’s main tenant-landlord law is the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law, Chapter 535. It outlines important protections for renters and rules for landlords.

Maximum Security Deposit Amount

• A landlord in Missouri cannot require a security deposit greater than two months’ rent.^[1]

How Security Deposits Must Be Handled

• Your deposit must be held by the landlord throughout your tenancy and cannot be commingled with personal funds.
• Interest on deposits is not required to be paid back to tenants in Missouri.

Legal Reasons for Deposit Deductions

Landlords can only deduct from your security deposit for:

• Unpaid rent
• Restore the unit to its original condition (minus normal wear and tear)
• Repair damages resulting from your neglect or abuse

Move-Out Inspections and Return Timelines

• Landlords must inspect the rental after you move out and before new tenants move in.
• Your landlord must return your security deposit within 30 days from the end of your tenancy, along with an itemized list of any deductions.

You have the right to be present at the move-out inspection if you request it, so it’s smart to ask your landlord ahead of time.

Getting Your Security Deposit Back

• Submit your forwarding address to the landlord in writing after moving out so they know where to mail your deposit.
• If the deposit is not returned, or deductions are not justified, you can seek help from your local court.

Tip: Always take photos and document the unit’s condition both at move-in and move-out. This can help avoid disputes over security deposit deductions later.

Official Forms for Missouri Renters

• Request for Return of Security Deposit (No Form Number)
  When to Use: If 30 days have passed since your lease ended and you have not received your security deposit back or a statement explaining deductions.
  How to Use: Write a letter to your landlord requesting the deposit, referencing Missouri law. A sample template is available from the Missouri Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Law Guide (see page 17).

If your landlord still doesn't comply, you may file a claim in your local Missouri Circuit Court for the amount owed. You can use the Small Claims Petition Form (CCADM15). This form is used to begin a small claims court action for disputes under $5,000.

• Small Claims Petition (CCADM15)
  When to Use: If your landlord does not return your security deposit after receiving your demand letter.
  How to Use: Complete the form and file it in the circuit court where the property is located. See instructions on the official Missouri Courts website.

Your Rights and the Tribunal for Rental Disputes

In Missouri, the courts (especially Missouri Circuit Courts) handle residential tenancy disputes, including claims for security deposits. There is no separate housing board or tribunal specifically for landlord-tenant disputes.

FAQ: Missouri Security Deposit Laws

1. What is the maximum security deposit a Missouri landlord can charge?
   Landlords in Missouri cannot require more than two months' rent for a security deposit.
2. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in Missouri?
   Your security deposit, minus any lawful deductions, must be returned within 30 days after you move out.
3. Can my landlord keep my deposit for cleaning or repairs?
   A landlord can deduct for cleaning or repairs only if they're needed to bring the unit back to its original condition, except for normal wear and tear. Damage due to tenant neglect can also be deducted.
4. What if my landlord doesn't return my deposit after 30 days?
   You can send a written demand and, if the deposit is still not returned, take legal action by filing a claim in small claims court.
5. Am I allowed to be present for the move-out inspection?
   Yes, as a renter, you have the right to be present during the move-out inspection if you request it before moving out.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Your security deposit cannot exceed two months’ rent.
• Deposits must be returned within 30 days, with an explanation for any deductions.
• If your landlord doesn't comply, you have options to request your deposit or file a court claim.

Keep copies of all correspondence and take photos at move-in and move-out to protect your security deposit rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Law Resource
• Missouri Courts – Find Your Local Circuit Court
• Missouri Rental Group – Renter Advocacy Information
• Missouri Attorney General Consumer Protection Hotline: (800) 392-8222

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1. See Missouri Revised Statutes Section 535.300
2. See Missouri Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Guide
3. Missouri Courts overview: Official Missouri Judiciary

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